Mixed 3-mono-O-alkyl cellulose: Synthesis, structure characterization and thermal properties

► Two different ether groups were selectively introduced at position 3 of the repeating unit. ► The ratio of both alkyl substituents was controlled by the ratio of the alkylating agents. ► The structure was characterized by means of NMR- and FT-IR spectroscopy. ► The aqueous solution of the polymers possesses a lower critical solution temperature. ► The lower critical solution temperature is controlled by the ratio of the alkyl groups.